Archetypes are notably recurrent themes that we experience when moving our body in asana. They are motifs, patterns, and help us to classify and understand the biomechanics of shapes that we use in (Yin) Yoga practice. Paul Grilley and his wife and teaching partner Suzee Grilley have devised five main archetypes that encompass the majority of the asana experienced in the Yin Yoga practice. (There are seven, they claim, that encompass the totality of Yoga asana.)

These archetypes are useful tools to adapt your own practice to your unique body and for understanding how to adapt students to the intention of your class. They allow for a greater scope of practice and understanding them will make you a better teacher. Guaranteed.

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